1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 69 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda RX-7 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2460 mm |
