2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 434 kg more than 1999 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 121 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1241 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |