1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 BMW 116
To start off, 2010 BMW 116 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 BMW 116 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 116 (121 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 116 weights approximately 349 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 116 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 2010 BMW 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2010 BMW 116 (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2010 BMW 116 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 121 | 116 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |
