1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 102 kg more 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1682 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |