1992 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 665 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 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 | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
