1999 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 392 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda 121 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 121 | 3 |
Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1241 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2639 mm |