1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 294 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 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 121 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 121 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1358 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2578 mm |