2003 Mazda 2 vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 2 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 121 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 1981 Mazda 121 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| 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 | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
