1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 426 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent, 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2008 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 121 | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
