1986 Lancia Thema vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 9 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lancia Thema weights approximately 20 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, 1986 Lancia Thema, 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lancia Thema | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Thema | 121 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
