1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1988 Renault 25
To start off, 1988 Renault 25 is newer by 9 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Renault 25 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 25 (142 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 25 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 25 weights approximately 156 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, 1988 Renault 25, 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, 1988 Renault 25 (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 25 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1988 Renault 25 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 121 | 25 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
