2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1999 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 77.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |