1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121.
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 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4554 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2578 mm |
