1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1987 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1987 Ford Meteor is newer by 8 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 19 more horse power than 1987 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Meteor.
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, 1987 Ford Meteor, 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1987 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 121 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
