1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2001 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2001 Porsche Boxster is newer by 5 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 2,687 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche Boxster (217 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 275 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Porsche Boxster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Porsche Boxster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Porsche Boxster (265 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2001 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 121 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2360 mm |
