2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 5 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
