1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 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 1,306 cc, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 434 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 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
