1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2002 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2002 Suzuki Samurai 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 27 more horse power than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Suzuki Samurai 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 Suzuki Samurai 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2002 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 121 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2490 mm |
