1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Saab 9-7X
To start off, 2009 Saab 9-7X 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 4,160 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Saab 9-7X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 9-7X (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 9-7X should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 9-7X weights approximately 1007 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 Saab 9-7X 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 Saab 9-7X 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 Saab 9-7X (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 9-7X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Saab 9-7X | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 121 | 9-7X |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4160 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2880 mm |
