1996 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 520 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 520 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 171 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |