1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 30 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Let's talk about torque, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
