1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 23 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 356 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 2002 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mazda 6 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
