2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
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 Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 53 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 339 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1299 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
