1971 BMW 2002 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 BMW 2002 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 2002 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 2002 should accelerate faster than 2011 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, 1971 BMW 2002 (197 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 2002 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 2002 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 2002 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2329 mm |
