1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 26 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis (239 HP) has 149 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 723 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis (389 Nm) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 121 | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 239 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 389 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1857 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2920 mm |
