1971 Fiat 127 vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1977 Mazda 121 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 121 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1971 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 121 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 1977 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 127, 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, 1977 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 127. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 127 | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 127 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3600 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |
