2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1992 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1992 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1992 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
