1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 105 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
