1998 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Scion tC
To start off, 2013 Scion tC is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (16 cylinders), 2013 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Scion tC (178 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Scion tC weights approximately 386 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Scion tC is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2013 Scion tC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Scion tC (235 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 2013 Scion tC | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | 121 | tC |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1377 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2700 mm |
