1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (233 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 721 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 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (253 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 233 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 253 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
