1990 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 15 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 316 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 316 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1250 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |