1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 112 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 105 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco.
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, 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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, 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco (159 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1982 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
