1977 Mazda 121 vs. 1972 ZIL 117
To start off, 1977 Mazda 121 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,959 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 ZIL 117 (296 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 ZIL 117 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 ZIL 117 weights approximately 1750 kg more than 1977 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 ZIL 117 (570 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 ZIL 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 1972 ZIL 117 | |
| Make | Mazda | ZIL |
| Model | 121 | 117 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 6959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3310 mm |
