1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1290 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 3001 mm |
