1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1986 Mazda 323
To start off, 1986 Mazda 323 is newer by 7 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 @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 274 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323. 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, 1986 Mazda 323, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1986 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 121 | 323 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1071 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 80 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |