2003 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 1036 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X5 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X5 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
