1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 275 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 50 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
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 | 1025 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |