2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 241 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
