2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 664 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
