1992 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Rio weights approximately 273 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 Kia Rio (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 121 | Rio |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4850 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 | 1093 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 43 L |
