1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (75 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 126 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 Passat (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Passat |
| 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 | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2470 mm |
