1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1996 Proton Perdana
To start off, 1996 Proton Perdana 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 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Proton Perdana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton Perdana (148 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton Perdana should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton Perdana weights approximately 166 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, 1996 Proton Perdana, 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 Proton Perdana (179 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Proton Perdana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1996 Proton Perdana | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | 121 | Perdana |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
