2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri weights approximately 281 kg more than 1979 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri (260 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo Centauri | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Centauri | 121 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 98 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
