1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 31 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-2 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 1972 Mazda RX-2. 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |
