Compare the2025 Mazda MX-5 MiataVS 2025 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, post-collision automatic braking systems, 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 55 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.

J.D. Power and Associates’ 2024 survey of the owners of three-year-old vehicles provides the long-term dependability statistics that show that Mazda vehicles are more reliable than BMW vehicles. J.D. Power ranks Mazda above average in long-term dependability. With 5 more problems per 100 vehicles in the first three years of ownership, BMW is rated lower.

From surveys of all its subscribers, Consumer Reports’ January 2024 Auto Issue reports that Mazda vehicles are more reliable than BMW vehicles. Consumer Reports ranks Mazda 2 places higher in reliability than BMW.

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

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 1650 to 1800 pounds less than the BMW 4 Series Convertible.

The MX-5 Miata is 2 feet, 9.8 inches shorter than the 4 Series Convertible, 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 Advanced Keyless Entry and Start allow you to unlock the doors from either outside door handle, open the trunk, and start the engine, all without removing the key from the pocket or purse. Comfort Go standard on the 4 Series Convertible only offers hands-free access for the ignition, none to unlock the car.

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 $6595 to $8140 less than the 4 Series Convertible over a five-year period.

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