1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Toyota Solara
To start off, 2002 Toyota Solara 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 2,438 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota Solara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota Solara (162 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota Solara should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota Solara weights approximately 265 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 Toyota Solara, 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 Toyota Solara (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Toyota Solara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2002 Toyota Solara | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | Solara |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
