1994 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1994 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 316 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 316 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 48 L |
