2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 250 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Renault 12, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Renault 12 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 12 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1150 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 56 L |