1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1997 Toyota Celica
To start off, 1997 Toyota Celica is newer by 18 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Celica (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Celica should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 39 kg more than 1997 Toyota Celica.
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, 1997 Toyota Celica, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Celica. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1997 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | Celica |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1762 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
