1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Honda Jazz
To start off, 2012 Honda Jazz 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 1,339 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Jazz is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Jazz (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Jazz should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Jazz weights approximately 1052 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, 2012 Honda Jazz (127 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Jazz will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2012 Honda Jazz | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 121 | Jazz |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1339 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 2043 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
