1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1999 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1999 Mercury Tracer is newer by 20 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 (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Tracer is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 600 kg more 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, 1999 Mercury Tracer, 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, 1999 Mercury Tracer (170 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 1999 Mercury Tracer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1999 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 121 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1734 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
