2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 74 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1422 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 159 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1244 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |