1961 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 235 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 501 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 50 L |
