1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 26 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 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 120 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 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, 2004 Saturn ION, 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 121 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | 121 | ION |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2187 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |