1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Renault Espace
To start off, 2009 Renault Espace 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Renault Espace (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Renault Espace weights approximately 681 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 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 Renault Espace, 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, 2009 Renault Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 121 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2870 mm |
