2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 21 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1988 Renault 21, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Renault 21 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 21 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2610 mm |