1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Sentra is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 174 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, 2011 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2011 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2011 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4567 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2685 mm |
