1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
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 MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2460 mm |
