2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 184 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Passat |
Year Released | 2011 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1786 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 | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1309 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |