1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Verada
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Verada 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Verada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Verada (208 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Verada should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Verada weights approximately 376 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Verada, 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Verada (316 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Verada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2002 Mitsubishi Verada | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Verada |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
