1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport (164 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 436 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, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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 Pontiac Trans Sport (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 121 | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2800 mm |
