1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Renault Megane
To start off, 2002 Renault Megane 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Renault Megane. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Megane weights approximately 12 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, 2002 Renault Megane, 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Megane. (105 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2002 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 121 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
