1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 25 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. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 160 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, 2002 Nissan Altima, 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
