1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo
To start off, 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo weights approximately 392 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, 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo, 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, 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo (278 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1987 Oldsmobile Trofeo | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 121 | Trofeo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1526 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
