1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 186 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
