1959 Alpine A 106 vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 1985 Mazda 121 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 1,138 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 121 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1959 Alpine A 106.
Because 1959 Alpine A 106 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 1959 Alpine A 106. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Mazda 121 (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alpine A 106. (45 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alpine A 106.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alpine A 106 | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Alpine | Mazda |
| Model | A 106 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 55 HP |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 530 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2370 mm |
