1999 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,832 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma weights approximately 744 kg more than 1999 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma (174 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 121 | 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Carisma |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 1832 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
