1991 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Nissan NV
To start off, 2012 Nissan NV is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Nissan NV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan NV (317 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NV should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan NV weights approximately 1766 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan NV 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 2012 Nissan NV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2012 Nissan NV (521 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan NV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121. 2012 Nissan NV has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Nissan NV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 121 | 2012 Nissan NV | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | NV |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 521 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 2666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 6111 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 2156 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 3711 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 106 L |
