1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Rover 25
To start off, 2005 Rover 25 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Rover 25 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Rover 25 (100 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Rover 25 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Rover 25, 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, 2005 Rover 25 (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Rover 25 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2005 Rover 25 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 121 | 25 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
