1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, both 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 1996 Volkswagen Golf were released in the same year (1996). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.7 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |