2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2000 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Passat (151 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 244 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2000 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, 2000 Volkswagen Passat (279 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2000 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2000 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
