1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 831 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.
Because 2013 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2013 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2790 mm |
