1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 445 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Jetta |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |