2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 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 66 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 50 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, 2007 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 (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
