1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Alto 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 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2012 Suzuki Alto. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2012 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 106 kg more than 2012 Suzuki Alto. 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, 1996 Mazda 121 (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Suzuki Alto. (90 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2012 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 121 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2360 mm |
