1993 BMW 518 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW 518 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW 518 weights approximately 169 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 BMW 518 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 1993 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1993 BMW 518 (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW 518 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 518 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
