2003 Kia Retona vs. 1997 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Kia Retona 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Kia Retona (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Kia Retona should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Retona weights approximately 879 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 Kia Retona 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 Kia Retona 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 Kia Retona (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Retona | 1997 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Retona | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2460 mm |
