1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Nissan Note
To start off, 2008 Nissan Note is newer by 29 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Note. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Note. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Note weights approximately 33 kg more 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, 2008 Nissan Note, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Note. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Note.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2008 Nissan Note | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | Note |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1386 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1167 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
