2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 265 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 54 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 191 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 72 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 45 L |