1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 27 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara (126 HP @ 2900 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 296 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 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara (174 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 121 | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2490 mm |
