2006 Lexus IS vs. 1999 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (176 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 739 kg more than 1999 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Lexus IS 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2006 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Lexus IS | 1999 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Lexus | Mazda |
Model | IS | 121 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2231 cc | 1241 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 71 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2460 mm |