2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 42 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 178 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 172 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2512 mm |