2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 110 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1998 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
