1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1987 Nissan Santana
To start off, 1987 Nissan Santana 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, 1987 Nissan Santana (93 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Nissan Santana should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 64 kg more than 1987 Nissan Santana.
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 Nissan Santana, 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan Santana. (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1987 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | Santana |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |
