2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
