2000 Mazda 121 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Mazda 121 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 230 kg more than 2000 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda 121 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2470 mm |
