1952 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 60 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 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 95 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 160 kg more than 2012 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. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1952 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1952 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1952 BMW 501 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 501 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2329 mm |