1977 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 320 (161 HP) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 142 kg more than 1977 BMW 320.
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:
| 1977 BMW 320 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2340 mm |
