1975 BMW 316 vs. 1995 Mazda 121
To start off, 1995 Mazda 121 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,573 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 BMW 316 (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 BMW 316 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1995 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 316 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 1975 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1975 BMW 316 (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1975 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 316 | 1995 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1322 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 43 L |
