1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep

To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (130 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 171 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Mazda 121 1999 Saab 03-Sep
Make Mazda Saab
Model 121 03-Sep
Year Released 1979 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 130 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 177 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 98 mm 78 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 10.1:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1134 kg 1305 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2610 mm


 

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