2009 BMW 125 vs. 1999 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1999 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2009 BMW 125 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 125 | 1999 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 125 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
