2002 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (177 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (78 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 2, 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 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 2 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 5.6 L/100km | 4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.8 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
