2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 774 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | X3 | 121 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |