1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 Honda Civic
To start off, 2010 Honda Civic is newer by 31 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, 2010 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.
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, 2010 Honda Civic, 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, 2010 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2010 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2010 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 121 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
