2009 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (161 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 614 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 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2009 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
