1995 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 382 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
