2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Safrane 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 (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Renault Safrane. (141 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Safrane weights approximately 350 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, 1996 Renault Safrane, 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, 1996 Renault Safrane (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Safrane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 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 | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |
