2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 490 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1983 Volkswagen Polo
Make Mazda Volkswagen
Model MX-5 Miata Polo
Year Released 2007 1983
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1798 cc 1043 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 124 HP 39 HP
Torque 167 Nm 74 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.1 mm 59 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 200 km/hour 135 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1192 kg 702 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 3770 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1260 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.5 L/100km 6.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 40 L