2007 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2007 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW M3 weights approximately 591 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW M3 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2460 mm |
