MAZDA 121 (1990-1996)
The Mazda 121 is a subcompact car that was produced by Mazda from 1983 to 2002. It was sold under various names in different markets, including the Ford Festiva, Kia Pride, and Hyundai Excel. The 121 was available in both three-door hatchback and five-door sedan body styles.
The first-generation 121 was introduced in 1983. It was based on the Ford Festiva, and was powered by a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine. The second-generation 121 was introduced in 1990. It was larger than the first-generation model, and was available with a wider range of engines, including a 1.5-liter four-cylinder and a 1.8-liter four-cylinder.
The second-generation 121 was a popular car in Europe, where it was known as the Mazda Demio. It was also sold in North America as the Ford Festiva. The 121 was discontinued in 2002, and was replaced by the Mazda2.
Design
The Mazda 121 was a small, lightweight car. It had a simple, boxy design that was typical of Japanese cars of the era. The 121 was available in both three-door hatchback and five-door sedan body styles. The hatchback was the more popular body style, and it offered more cargo space than the sedan.
The 121's interior was simple and functional. It had a basic dashboard with a large speedometer and tachometer. The seats were comfortable, and they offered good support. The 121's cargo space was limited, but it was sufficiente for most everyday needs.
Engine and Performance
The Mazda 121 was powered by a variety of engines, including a 1.3-liter four-cylinder, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder, and a 1.8-liter four-cylinder. The 1.3-liter engine was the most common, and it produced 75 horsepower and 85 lb-ft of torque. The 1.5-liter engine produced 92 horsepower and 99 lb-ft of torque, and the 1.8-liter engine produced 125 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque.
The 121 was a fuel-efficient car. The 1.3-liter engine got up to 35 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. The 1.5-liter engine got up to 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, and the 1.8-liter engine got up to 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.
The 121 was not a particularly fast car, but it was adequate for most everyday driving. The 1.3-liter engine was a bit sluggish, but the 1.5-liter engine provided more than enough power for most situations. The 1.8-liter engine was the most powerful of the three, and it provided good acceleration.
Handling
The Mazda 121 was a nimble and agile car. It had a light, responsive steering system, and it cornered well. The 121's suspension was firm, but it was not uncomfortable. The 121 was a pleasure to drive, and it was well-suited for both city and highway driving.
Safety
The Mazda 121 was not a particularly safe car by modern standards. It did not have any airbags, and it did not score well in crash tests. However, the 121 was still a relatively safe car for its time. It had a strong body structure, and it offered good protection in the event of a crash.
Overall
The Mazda 121 was a good choice for budget-minded shoppers who wanted a reliable and fuel-efficient car. It was not the most exciting car to drive, but it was practical and affordable. The 121 was a popular choice among first-time car buyers and budget-conscious families.
