2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 291 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, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (236 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
