2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Renault Espace would be higher. Both 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 1999 Renault Espace are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Renault Espace. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Espace weights approximately 392 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, 1999 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, 1999 Renault Espace (189 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1999 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Espace |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
