2002 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 4 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 604 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 2002 BMW M3 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 2002 BMW M3. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121. 2002 BMW M3 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. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW M3 | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | M3 | 121 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 110 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |