Compare the2022 Mazda MX-5 MiataVS 2022 BMW 4 Series Convertible

Both the MX-5 Miata and the 4 Series Convertible have standard driver and passenger frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-impact head airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control, electronic stability systems to prevent skidding, crash mitigating brakes, daytime running lights, lane departure warning systems, blind spot warning systems, rearview cameras and rear cross-path warning.

Mazda’s powertrain warranty covers the MX-5 Miata 1 year and 10,000 miles longer than BMW covers the 4 Series Convertible. Any repair needed on the engine, transmission, axles, joints or driveshafts is fully covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Coverage on the 4 Series Convertible ends after only 4 years or 50,000 miles.

There are over 56 percent more Mazda dealers than there are BMW dealers, which makes it much easier should you ever need service under the MX-5 Miata’s warranty.

From surveys of all its subscribers, Consumer Reports’ January 2021 Auto Issue reports that Mazda vehicles are more reliable than BMW vehicles. Consumer Reports ranks Mazda first in reliability. BMW is ranked 12th.

On the EPA test cycle the MX-5 Miata gets better mileage than the 4 Series Convertible:

To lower fuel costs and make buying fuel easier, the Mazda MX-5 Miata uses regular unleaded gasoline (premium recommended for maximum performance). The 4 Series Convertible requires premium, which can cost 20 to 55 cents more per gallon.

The MX-5 Miata offers a manual transmission for better acceleration, control and sportiness. The 4 Series Convertible doesn’t offer a manual transmission.

For better maneuverability, the MX-5 Miata’s turning circle is 6.6 feet tighter than the 4 Series Convertible’s (30.8 feet vs. 37.4 feet). The MX-5 Miata’s turning circle is 8.6 feet tighter than the 4 Series Convertible xDrive’s (30.8 feet vs. 39.4 feet).

The Mazda MX-5 Miata may be more efficient, handle and accelerate better because it weighs about 1600 to 1800 pounds less than the BMW 4 Series Convertible.

The MX-5 Miata is 2 feet, 9.8 inches shorter than the 430i, making the MX-5 Miata easier to handle, maneuver and park in tight spaces.

The MX-5 Miata's optional power retractable hardtop allows a seamless transition from an open car, to a completely sealed coupe. The 4 Series Convertible doesn’t offer a retractable hardtop.

The MX-5 Miata’s standard power windows have a locking feature to keep children from operating them. BMW does not offer a locking feature on the 4 Series Convertible’s standard power windows.

Insurance will cost less for the MX-5 Miata owner. The Complete Car Cost Guide estimates that insurance for the MX-5 Miata will cost $7665 to $9645 less than the 4 Series Convertible over a five-year period.

IntelliChoice estimates that five-year ownership costs (depreciation, financing, insurance, fuel, fees, repairs and maintenance) for the Mazda MX-5 Miata will be $26872 to $32909 less than for the BMW 4 Series Convertible.

Consumer Reports® recommends the Mazda MX-5 Miata, based on reliability, safety and performance.

The MX-5 Miata was chosen as one of Car and Driver’s “Top Ten” for 16 of the last 31 years. The 4 Series Convertible has never been a Car and Driver “Top Ten” pick.

The MX-5 Miata was chosen as one of Automobile Magazine’s “All Stars” for 8 of the last 28 years. The 4 Series Convertible has never been an “All Star.”