2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 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 92 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 165 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. 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, 1989 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 (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.5 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 | 1125 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
