2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 505 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (133 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2005 |
| 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 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
