2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Renault Clio
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1990 Renault Clio. (62 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 235 kg more than 1990 Renault Clio. 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, 1990 Renault Clio, 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault Clio. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Clio |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
