2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1997 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 5,326 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 549 kg more than 1997 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, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (438 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1997 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Monte Carlo | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5326 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2460 mm |
