1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 454 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
