2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 271 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2651 mm |
