1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 30 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 76 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Hyundai Elantra | |
Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
Model | 121 | Elantra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1975 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1058 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |