1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2005 Nissan Patrol is newer by 27 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 2,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Patrol (152 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Patrol should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 1070 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 2005 Nissan Patrol 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, 2005 Nissan Patrol 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, 2005 Nissan Patrol (372 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Patrol will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2005 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | Patrol |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 17.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |
