2009 Honda Jazz vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Honda Jazz 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Jazz (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Jazz should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Jazz weights approximately 65 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 Jazz (127 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Jazz will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2009 Honda Jazz 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 Jazz will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Jazz | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Jazz | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1339 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2460 mm |
