1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2001 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 Mazda 626 is newer by 22 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda 626 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 626 weights approximately 156 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, 2001 Mazda 626, 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, 2001 Mazda 626 (230 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 2001 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 121 | 626 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |