1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 347 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 220 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1302 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |