1991 BMW M12 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M12 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2329 mm |
