2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 32 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2012 Volkswagen 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.9 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
