2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 72 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (167 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 178 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 167 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1075 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2560 mm |