1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Saturn L
To start off, 2005 Saturn L 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 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 186 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 Saturn L, 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2005 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 121 | L |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
