1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 325 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
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 | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |