1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2007 Dodge Nitro is newer by 28 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 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 726 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 2007 Dodge Nitro 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2007 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | 121 | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
