1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 16 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (323 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 1726 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 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Chevrolet Silverado. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (515 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 121 | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 2790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 6580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 4250 mm |
