1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 572 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 Passat (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2013 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2803 mm |
