1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1974 Tatra T603
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Tatra T603 weights approximately 336 kg more than 1979 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, 1974 Tatra T603 (171 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1974 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mazda | Tatra |
| Model | 121 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
