2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 249 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 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
