2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 136 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, 2006 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 166 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1276 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4190 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |