1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 158 kg more than 1977 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, 1977 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 (134 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 95 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 72 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |