1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 151 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.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (141 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
