1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2009 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 12 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 3,545 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 384 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, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121. 2009 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2009 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 3545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2670 mm |
