1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Hyundai i20
To start off, 2012 Hyundai i20 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai i20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai i20 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai i20 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, 2012 Hyundai i20 (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai i20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2012 Hyundai i20 | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | 121 | i20 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2525 mm |
