1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1980 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Triumph TR7 (91 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 49 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR7.
Because 1980 Triumph TR7 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 1980 Triumph TR7. 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, 1980 Triumph TR7 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1980 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 121 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2170 mm |
