2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 77 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2580 mm |
