2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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.
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 Sharan, 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 Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
