1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 24 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer.
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, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
