1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,839 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 390 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1982 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (241 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (96 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
