1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (63 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 626, 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, 2011 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
