2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1995 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 518 kg more than 1995 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1995 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1322 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 43 L |
