2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (75 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Passat | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
