1997 Mazda 121 vs. 1973 AC 428
To start off, 1997 Mazda 121 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 AC 428 weights approximately 439 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 AC 428 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 1973 AC 428. 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, 1973 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 528 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121. 1973 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 1973 AC 428 | |
| Make | Mazda | AC |
| Model | 121 | 428 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 7002 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
