2006 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1997 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Elantra (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 209 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 Hyundai Elantra (143 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Elantra | 1997 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
