1961 BMW 502 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 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 502 weights approximately 355 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:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 502 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| 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 | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
