1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Vibe (122 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 91 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 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe 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, both vehicles can yield 160 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2004 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 121 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
