2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 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 @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 295 kg more than 1988 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, 1988 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
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 | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 770 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2340 mm |