1958 BMW Isetta vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1958 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 750 kg more than 1958 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1958 BMW Isetta | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Isetta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 108 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2680 mm |
