2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 578 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.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2460 mm |
