2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 42 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Golf | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
