1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander (220 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 406 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 Outlander 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 Outlander 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 Outlander (277 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 Outlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Outlander |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
