2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 30 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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
