2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 460 kg more than 1980 Renault 4. 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, 1980 Renault 4, 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 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Renault 4 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 4 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 955 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 62 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 695 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |