1991 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 10 kg more than 1991 BMW 518. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW 518 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 518 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 159 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2340 mm |