2007 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Jetta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
