2002 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 247 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (236 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
