1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G8 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G8 (414 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac G8 weights approximately 195 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.
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 Pontiac G8 (563 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 121 | G8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2920 mm |
