1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1980 Mazda 323
To start off, 1980 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 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) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 254 kg more than 1980 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 323. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1980 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2370 mm |
