2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 363 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
