2004 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 25 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 641 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2520 mm |
