1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 140 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 1999 | 1983 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 153 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |