1978 Mazda 121 vs. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara (141 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 275 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara (212 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 121 | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2490 mm |
