2003 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 27 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Polo | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Polo | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.6 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
