1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg (217 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 1238 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 Touareg 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 Touareg 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 Touareg (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2006 Volkswagen Touareg has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Touareg will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2006 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 2229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
