2009 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 12 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 684 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 2009 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1997 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1242 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 | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
