1958 Ford 12 M vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | 12 M | 121 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1350 mm |
