2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 269 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
