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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 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 559 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 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 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 | 1299 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2751 mm |
