2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 190 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |
