2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 40 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4534 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |