2009 Honda FR-V vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Honda FR-V 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda FR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda FR-V (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda FR-V should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda FR-V weights approximately 388 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 Honda FR-V (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Honda FR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2009 Honda FR-V 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 Honda FR-V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda FR-V | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | FR-V | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2120 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2460 mm |
