1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara (165 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 331 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 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara (220 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 121 | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2490 mm |
