2009 Volkswagen T5 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Volkswagen T5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Volkswagen T5 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1145 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen T5 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | T5 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5300 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3410 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 48 L |
