2006 BMW M3 vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2370 mm |
