1998 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2012 BMW 123
To start off, 2012 BMW 123 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 123 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 123 (202 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 123 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 123 weights approximately 556 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 123 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 123. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3, 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 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 123 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-3 | 2012 BMW 123 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | MX-3 | 123 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |
