1977 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 12 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, 1977 Mazda 121 (86 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 121 weights approximately 128 kg more than 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1977 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer. (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2390 mm |
