1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 333 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (359 Nm) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1463 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
