2007 Kia Spectra vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 2007 Kia Spectra 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 2,615 cc (2 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Spectra weights approximately 280 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 Kia Spectra, 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 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Spectra | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | 121 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
