1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2007 Nissan Sentra 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.
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, 2007 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2007 Nissan Sentra (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2007 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
