1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 230 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 166 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |