1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 327 kg more than 1997 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
