1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8

To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 291 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.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Mazda 121 2007 Mazda RX-8
Make Mazda Mazda
Model 121 RX-8
Year Released 1979 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 1306 cc
Engine Type in-line dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 90 HP 189 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1134 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2710 mm


 

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