1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 288 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2006 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
