2008 BMW 328 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 BMW 328 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 328 (231 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 328 weights approximately 381 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.
Because 1979 Mazda 121 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328, 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 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 328 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 328 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
