2007 Ford Focus vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 2007 Ford Focus is newer by 30 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Ford Focus (113 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford Focus weights approximately 142 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.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Ford Focus, 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, 2007 Ford Focus (251 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Ford Focus | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 121 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
