2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 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 (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 426 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 159 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |