2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1091 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1997 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
