1972 BMW 520 vs. 1991 Mazda 121
To start off, 1991 Mazda 121 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1991 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1322 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 43 L |
