1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Proton Arena
To start off, 2009 Proton Arena 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Proton Arena. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2009 Proton Arena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 99 kg more than 2009 Proton Arena. 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 Proton Arena, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Proton Arena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | 121 | Arena |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
