2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 9 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco. (158 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco weights approximately 159 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, 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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 Scirocco (240 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1139 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1404 mm |
