1996 Mazda MPV vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MPV. (114 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 350 kg more than 2012 BMW 120.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MPV. (277 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MPV | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | MPV | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2660 mm |
