2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1994 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 320 kg more than 1994 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1994 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 121 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 43 L |