1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. Both 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2007 Volkswagen Passat are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 513 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2007 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.9 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1478 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2720 mm |