1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 2005 Mercury Monterey 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 4,194 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Monterey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Monterey (201 HP) has 111 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Monterey should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 835 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, 2005 Mercury Monterey, 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, 2005 Mercury Monterey (357 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Monterey 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 Monterey | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 121 | Monterey |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1969 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3070 mm |
