1985 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 BMW 316
To start off, 2005 BMW 316 is newer by 20 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 316 weights approximately 650 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 2005 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 2005 BMW 316. 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, 2005 BMW 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121. 2005 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 121 | 2005 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 121 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1138 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2730 mm |
