2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 495 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2890 mm |
