1995 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1995 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 17 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. Both 1995 Alfa Romeo 146 and 1978 Mazda 121 are equipped with a 1,970 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Alfa Romeo 146 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1995 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1995 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 146 | 121 |
Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |