2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 948 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 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 121 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2460 mm |
