2009 BMW 318 vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 318 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2370 mm |
