2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 1999 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Mazda Tribute 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Tribute (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 794 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 Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute 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 Mazda Tribute (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 1999 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
