2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 89 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 121 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2460 mm |
