2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1249 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 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, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan (315 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (245 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Multivan |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 2304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 3010 mm |
