1991 Mazda 121 vs. 1997 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1997 Toyota MR2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Toyota MR2 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 1997 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1997 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 121 | 1997 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
