1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (412 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 353 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 623 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 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. 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 Ford Mustang (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 418 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 121 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 412 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 528 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1687 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
