2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 492 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1547 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4771 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |