1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 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 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 143 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 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 121 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 121 | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1998 cc |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 182 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |