1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 Chevrolet S-10
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet S-10 is newer by 25 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 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet S-10 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet S-10 (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet S-10 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet S-10 weights approximately 336 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 2004 Chevrolet S-10 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, 2004 Chevrolet S-10 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, 2004 Chevrolet S-10 (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet S-10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2004 Chevrolet S-10 | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 121 | S-10 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3130 mm |
