2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Espace would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 350 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1997 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, both vehicles can yield 168 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Espace |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
