2009 Mazda Tribute vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda Tribute (240 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 134 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 Tribute 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 Tribute 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 Tribute (302 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda Tribute | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6550 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2460 mm |
