1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (170 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 275 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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (237 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 121 | Altima |
Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2491 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 237 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 100 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1409 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2830 mm |