1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 12 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2008 Mazda 2.
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, 2008 Mazda 2 (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2008 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 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 | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2500 mm |
