1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC is newer by 34 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Scion tC weights approximately 258 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, 2012 Scion tC, 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, 2012 Scion tC (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 121 | 2012 Scion tC | |
Make | Mazda | Scion |
Model | 121 | tC |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1388 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4420 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |