2006 BMW M5 vs. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 BMW M5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 4,998 cc (10 cylinders), 2006 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 384 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M5 weights approximately 800 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 will offer significantly more control. 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 M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M5 | 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M5 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
