2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 3 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1063 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | T5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 19 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
