2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 10 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 198 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |