2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 170 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| 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 | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
