1959 BMW 700 vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 1985 Mazda 121 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,138 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 121 (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (39 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 121 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 700 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 121, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1985 Mazda 121 (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (50 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 700 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 695 cc | 1138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 126 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2370 mm |
