1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1970 Saab Sonett III
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab Sonett III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab Sonett III 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 26 more horse power than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab Sonett III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 334 kg more than 1970 Saab Sonett III. 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, 1970 Saab Sonett III, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab Sonett III.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1970 Saab Sonett III | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | 121 | Sonett III |
Year Released | 1979 | 1970 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 58.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2160 mm |