1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2003 Suzuki Ignis
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Ignis is newer by 25 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Ignis. (70 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Ignis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 121 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2003 Suzuki Ignis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Ignis, 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, 2003 Suzuki Ignis (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Ignis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2003 Suzuki Ignis | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 121 | Ignis |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2370 mm |
