1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Fiat 500
To start off, 2013 Fiat 500 is newer by 17 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 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Fiat 500 weights approximately 115 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, 2013 Fiat 500 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2013 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | 121 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3547 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1627 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2300 mm |
