1992 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Saturn ION
To start off, 2007 Saturn ION is newer by 15 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Saturn ION (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Saturn ION weights approximately 509 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, 2007 Saturn ION (203 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 2007 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 121 | ION |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 49 L |
