1992 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 275 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.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 50 L |
