2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | GTI |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
