1998 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 989 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 550 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 2012 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 499 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121. 2012 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 121 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 121 | 550 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1242 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2968 mm |