1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 Mazda 5
To start off, 2010 Mazda 5 is newer by 14 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 5 (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 5 weights approximately 514 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, 2010 Mazda 5 (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2010 Mazda 5 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. 2010 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2010 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1753 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2751 mm |
