2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 109 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 121 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 71 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2460 mm |