1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 420 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 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Jetta |
Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |