1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Volkswagen GLI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen GLI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen GLI weights approximately 172 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 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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, 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen GLI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2008 Volkswagen GLI | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | GLI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2580 mm |
