1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1964 Tatra T603
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,470 cc (8 cylinders), 1964 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Tatra T603 weights approximately 406 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 1964 Tatra T603 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 1964 Tatra T603. 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, 1964 Tatra T603 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1964 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1964 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mazda | Tatra |
| Model | 121 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2760 mm |
