2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1999 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 10 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 2,778 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 700 kg more than 1999 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1999 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 | 1999 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Nitro | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
