Both the MX-5 Miata and the 2 Series 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.
Compare the2022 Mazda MX-5 MiataVS 2022 BMW 2 Series
Safety
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Warranty
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Mazda’s powertrain warranty covers the MX-5 Miata 1 year and 10,000 miles longer than BMW covers the 2 Series. Any repair needed on the engine, transmission, axles, joints or driveshafts is fully covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Coverage on the 2 Series 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.
Reliability
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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.
Fuel Economy and Range
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To lower fuel costs and make buying fuel easier, the Mazda MX-5 Miata uses regular unleaded gasoline (premium recommended for maximum performance). The 2 Series requires premium, which can cost 20 to 55 cents more per gallon.
Transmission
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The MX-5 Miata offers a manual transmission for better acceleration, control and sportiness. The 2 Series doesn’t offer a manual transmission.
Suspension and Handling
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For better maneuverability, the MX-5 Miata’s turning circle is 5.6 feet tighter than the 230i’s (30.8 feet vs. 36.4 feet). The MX-5 Miata’s turning circle is 7.4 feet tighter than the M240i’s (30.8 feet vs. 38.2 feet).
Chassis
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The Mazda MX-5 Miata may be more efficient, handle and accelerate better because it weighs about 1200 to 1400 pounds less than the BMW 2 Series.
The MX-5 Miata is 2 feet shorter than the 230i, making the MX-5 Miata easier to handle, maneuver and park in tight spaces. The MX-5 Miata is 2 feet, 1.3 inches shorter than the M240i.
The MX-5 Miata's optional power retractable hardtop allows a seamless transition from an open car, to a completely sealed coupe. The 2 Series doesn’t offer a retractable hardtop.
Ergonomics
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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 2 Series’ standard power windows.
Economic Advantages
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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 $1665 to $7790 less than the 2 Series 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 $9128 to $23774 less than for the BMW 2 Series.
Recommendations
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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 M235i/M240i hasn’t been picked since 2017.
The MX-5 Miata was chosen as one of Automobile Magazine’s “All Stars” for 8 of the last 28 years. The 2 Series hasn’t been picked since 2015.