1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1996 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 17 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.
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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 121 | SS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
