1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1993 Mazda 626
To start off, 1993 Mazda 626 is newer by 14 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda 626 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.
Because 1993 Mazda 626 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Mazda 626 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1993 Mazda 626 (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1993 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
