1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 393 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (131 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1348 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
