1998 Mazda Midge vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda Midge. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda Midge would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1998 Mazda Midge. (67 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda Midge. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 384 kg more than 1998 Mazda Midge. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda Midge. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda Midge. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda Midge. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda Midge has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda Midge will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda Midge | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Midge | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
