2002 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 121 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147. (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 147 | 121 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |