2009 BMW 530 vs. 1979 Mazda 121

To start off, 2009 BMW 530 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 530 1979 Mazda 121
Make BMW Mazda
Model 530 121
Year Released 2009 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2995 cc 1970 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 254 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 8.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm