1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 385 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 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2578 mm |
