2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault Espace 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 (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1986 Renault Espace. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 159 kg more than 1986 Renault Espace. 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, 1986 Renault Espace, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault Espace. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Espace |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 68 L |
