2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 49 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | T5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 194 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
