1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 MG ZS
To start off, 2004 MG ZS 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 MG ZS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZS (176 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZS should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZS weights approximately 176 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 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, 2004 MG ZS, 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, 2004 MG ZS (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 MG ZS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2004 MG ZS | |
| Make | Mazda | MG |
| Model | 121 | ZS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
