1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 70 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, 2005 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 121 | ION |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2189 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 | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
