What is better. A 1996 mazda miata, or a 1999 vw new beatle?

Question

I will need a dependable car to go to work (about 90miles round trip. I am looking at a 1999 vw new beatle, and also a 1996 mazda miata. They both have around 106,000 miles. Which one would be the better choice? Also they both cost the same

Answer 1

I work for Mazda.

But for your purpose - daily commute of 90miles, the VW is what you need. The MX5 - Miata is a fun to drive vehicle for which the fun-to-drive attributes are best realized when driving is fun. Commuting is not fun. The hammering you'd be putting the vehicle through would result in you developing an unwarranted displeasure when the vehicle starts to experiance problems associated with unsportscar-like driving - i.e. less attention given to regular service.
On the other hand the VW is a workhorse. Any on-the-road problems you'd experiance would be very easy to get seen to by a regular 24 hour towing service/garage. The uniqueness of the MX-5 would pose a problem for you in times of emergency - flat battery etc. The battery for instance is unique to the Miata. The vehicle was simply not designed for that sort of driving - though it is a potent little sports car. The key to enjoyable vehicle ownership is function and utility being delivered to you by the vehicle in balanced doses. And both must be in equal or greater quantities to what you expect at time of purchase.
I'd love to see you behind the wheel of a Miata but if my hope is to see you driving safely and joyously to and from work 5 days a week, then I'd say please get yourself the VW.

Answer 2

I am now on my second Miata. They are wonderful cars, that make you smile every time you drive them.
However, if you have to deal with snow where you live, they are awful. Also, no backseat. So, the Beetle is nowhere near as good handling, or as reliable, or as sporty, but it is more practical.
If I were you, I would look at a used Mazda Protege or Mazda 3. Both are better than the VW, and have some sportiness like the Miata (but roomier & better in bad weather).

Answer 3

I hope you are female if you are considering these cars.

All things equal, I like the Mazda better than the VW, but make sure you check www.carfax.com and invest the $24.99 to avoid a mistake.
With all of the flooded cars from Hurricane Katrina and the scams that people put on older cars, you have to find out the history on a big investment.
It might help you make your decision easier.

Answer 4

Volkswagen (beetle) if only because it is newer even though the miles are about the same, and since you said the price is about the same. But no one out here can exactly answer your question because only you have seen both cars and know all the variance's that could allow your choice to go either way.

Answer 5

yes you definitely need to have comfort while commuting and the mazda is only fun in "CorkyRomano" VW is more about comfort with al their vehicles. you will regret it later if you choose the mazda over the VW... it just makes no sense..

Answer 6

The Beatles

Answer 7

definetly miata. i tested one and they have really good handling and performance, mostly due to theyre light weigh. i hate beetles, just cause they look like them and are low horsepower, ugly, heavier cars. go for a nice rwd 5 speed miata and youll be a happy person.

Answer 8

VW is junk. Better after 2002.

Answer 9

Mazda...