1992 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 266 kg more than 1992 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
