2006 BMW 323 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 BMW 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,497 cc, 2006 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1989 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, 2006 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm). This means 2006 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 323 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
