2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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 @ 6700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 102 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2512 mm |