2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 30 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1086 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |