2008 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 12 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 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 499 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 2008 BMW 323 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 2008 BMW 323. 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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1242 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
