2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 13 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 3,899 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 485 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2009 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2009 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Impala | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3899 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2460 mm |
