2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 111 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Beetle |
Year Released | 2007 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 166 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 191 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1313 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |