1974 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (82 Nm). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
