1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Saturn SC
To start off, 2002 Saturn SC 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, 2002 Saturn SC (101 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2002 Saturn SC.
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 Saturn SC, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn SC. (155 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 2002 Saturn SC | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | 121 | SC |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1074 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |