1978 BMW 320 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 531 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 280 kg more than 1978 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:
1978 BMW 320 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 320 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 641 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2270 mm |