2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
