1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1977 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
