1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2000 Mazda 323
To start off, 2000 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP) has 16 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda 323 weights approximately 13 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, 2000 Mazda 323, 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 2000 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 121 | 323 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
Torque | 160 Nm | 109 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 71.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1147 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |