1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1987 Zastava Yugo
To start off, 1987 Zastava Yugo 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 20 more horse power than 1987 Zastava Yugo. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1987 Zastava Yugo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 184 kg more than 1987 Zastava Yugo. 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 Zastava Yugo, 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Zastava Yugo. (108 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Zastava Yugo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1987 Zastava Yugo | |
| Make | Mazda | Zastava |
| Model | 121 | Yugo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1372 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 67.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
