1997 Mazda 121 vs. 1963 NSU 1000 LS
To start off, 1997 Mazda 121 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 NSU 1000 LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 NSU 1000 LS would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. (42 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 121 weights approximately 371 kg more than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 NSU 1000 LS 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 1963 NSU 1000 LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Mazda 121 (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 NSU 1000 LS. (70 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 NSU 1000 LS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 1963 NSU 1000 LS | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | 121 | 1000 LS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 42 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 66.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2260 mm |
