2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 523 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
