2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 254 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
