2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 700 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Nitro | 1997 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Nitro | 121 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |