1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1956 Saab 93
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Saab 93. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Saab 93 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1956 Saab 93. (33 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1956 Saab 93. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 324 kg more than 1956 Saab 93. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Saab 93, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Saab 93. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Saab 93.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1956 Saab 93 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 121 | 93 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 748 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 33 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 72.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
