2008 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (310 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 611 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 330 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 330. 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 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
