1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1985 Ford Tempo is newer by 6 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Tempo (100 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Tempo should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Tempo weights approximately 31 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. 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, 1985 Ford Tempo, 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, 1985 Ford Tempo (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | 121 | Tempo |
Year Released | 1979 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2540 mm |