1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 MCC Smart
To start off, 2005 MCC Smart is newer by 9 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 MCC Smart (60 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 261 kg more than 2005 MCC Smart.
Because 2005 MCC Smart 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 2005 MCC Smart. 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, 1996 Mazda 121 (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 MCC Smart. (96 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2005 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Mazda | MCC |
| Model | 121 | Smart |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2370 mm |
