1985 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 BMW Z8
To start off, 2002 BMW Z8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z8 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z8 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 2002 BMW Z8. 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, 2002 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 121 | 2002 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 121 | Z8 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1138 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2580 mm |
