2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 321 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 54 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 834 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |