1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2009 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 13 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 2,494 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 10 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.
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, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2009 Toyota RAV4 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. 2009 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2009 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2670 mm |
