2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat 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 88 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 154 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1987 Volkswagen Passat, 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (118 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2560 mm |
