2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2010 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 7 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (69 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 42 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, 2010 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Polo. (112 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2010 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
