2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 338 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 121 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 166 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 103 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2460 mm |