1997 Acura NSX vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura NSX (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 379 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Acura NSX 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 1997 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1997 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Acura NSX | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Acura | Mazda |
Model | NSX | 121 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 272 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 284 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 991 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2460 mm |