2001 Mazda 626 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2001 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 626, 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, 2001 Mazda 626 (230 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 626 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 53 L |
