2008 BMW 118 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 118 (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 96 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, 2008 BMW 118 (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 118 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 118 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
