1956 BMW 502 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 502 weights approximately 306 kg more than 2005 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:
| 1956 BMW 502 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 502 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
