2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 507 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
