2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (169 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 389 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
