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, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
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 | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
