1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara (164 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 312 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 121 | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3865 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1695 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2440 mm |
