2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Sonata 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Sonata (160 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 551 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 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
