2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 95 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |