1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Volkswagen Magellan
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,896 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Magellan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan (275 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Magellan weights approximately 394 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan (310 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Magellan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2002 Volkswagen Magellan has automatic transmission and 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Magellan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Volkswagen Magellan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Magellan |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
