1992 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 20 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (198 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 614 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | 121 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| 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 | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
