1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1961 NSU Prinz IV
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 NSU Prinz IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz IV would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda 121 (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 426 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 NSU Prinz IV 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 1961 NSU Prinz IV. 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, 1996 Mazda 121 (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1961 NSU Prinz IV | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | 121 | Prinz IV |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2050 mm |
