2006 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fiesta (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 81 kg more than 1996 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 Ford Fiesta (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2460 mm |
