1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (283 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 539 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 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (354 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 121 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 121 | 350Z |
Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 354 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |