1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2013 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 36 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Hyundai Sonata (195 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 321 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, 2013 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2013 Hyundai Sonata (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2013 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | 121 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2795 mm |
