2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 214 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1299 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |