2007 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 2007 Ford Focus is newer by 29 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, 2007 Ford Focus (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford Focus weights approximately 110 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, 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Ford Focus | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 121 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 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 | 145 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
