1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 1989 Saab 9000 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 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 191 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 Saab 9000, 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 Saab 9000 (216 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | 121 | 9000 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2290 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |