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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 174 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 218 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 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent (340 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 180 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 | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
