2008 BMW 550 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 739 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 550 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 550. 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 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 550 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 550 | 121 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 489 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2460 mm |