2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 225 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1983 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 77.4 mm |
Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |