1999 Lotus Esprit vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 22 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 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 264 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 248 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Esprit | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 121 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 86 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |
