2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 610 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
