1992 BMW 518 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1992 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 518.
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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1992 BMW 518 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 518 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2329 mm |