1949 BMW 340 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1949 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1949 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 BMW 340 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 BMW 340 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 340 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2270 mm |
