1995 Mazda 121 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1995 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda 121 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
