2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
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 New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 19 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| 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 Length | 4000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
