1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 56 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
