1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 57 kg more than 2008 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2008 Nissan Xterra 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, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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, 2008 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 121 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
