1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
