2007 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 11 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 584 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.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Lexus IS | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Lexus | Mazda |
Model | IS | 121 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 288 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 71 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |