1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Toyota MR2 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 1,792 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota MR2 (150 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 1 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 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. 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 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2005 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2500 mm |
