1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. Both 1977 Mazda 121 and 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 are equipped with a 1,970 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 365 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.
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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 121 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2600 mm |
