1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Renault Megane
To start off, 2007 Renault Megane 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Renault Megane (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Megane weights approximately 256 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 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 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2007 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 121 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
