1957 BMW 502 vs. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,579 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1957 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 502 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1991 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:
| 1957 BMW 502 | 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 502 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2579 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| 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 | 1410 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
