2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 6 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 462 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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, both vehicles can yield 171 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2007 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
