2009 Mazda CX-7 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda CX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda CX-7 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2009 Mazda CX-7.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7, 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-7 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | CX-7 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 244 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 51 L |
