2008 Fiat 500 vs. 1999 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 9 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 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda 121 (74 HP) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (54 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 121 weights approximately 11 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. 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, 2008 Fiat 500 (146 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat 500 | 1999 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2460 mm |
