2008 BMW 323 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (165 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 308 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (190 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1999 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| 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 Weight | 1490 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 48 L |
