2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 223 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1248 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |