2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 54 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 106 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
