1977 Honda Civic vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Honda Civic 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 31 more horse power than 1977 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1977 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 441 kg more than 1977 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Honda Civic, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Honda Civic | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | 121 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1237 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 693 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
