2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 249 kg more than 1976 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, 1976 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 56 L |
