1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 269 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1983 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (129 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
Model | Golf | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |