1952 BMW 501 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 501 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 156 kg more than 2006 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:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 501 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2340 mm |
