2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat Panda (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Panda weights approximately 149 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 2009 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda 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 Fiat Panda (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2460 mm |
