2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1991 Mazda 121
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (243 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Exige weights approximately 110 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 2005 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1991 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Exige | 121 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1322 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 43 L |
