1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 171 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 Volkswagen Sharan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will offer significantly more control. 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 Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Sharan 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 Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2850 mm |
