1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 19 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, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
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, 1998 Mazda MX-3, 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 121 | MX-3 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1059 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |