2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Renault 5
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1983 Renault 5. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 208 kg more than 1983 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1983 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1983 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 5 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 51 L |
