1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 1 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 209 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | 121 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
