2003 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 7 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 5,970 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (395 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 686 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 2003 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2003 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (544 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Corvette | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Corvette | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5970 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 395 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 544 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2460 mm |
