1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 626 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121. 2011 Nissan Maxima 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. 2011 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda 121 | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 121 | Maxima |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1242 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 291 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 354 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1617 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4841 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1468 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2776 mm |