1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 Lexus IS
To start off, 2010 Lexus IS 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus IS weights approximately 608 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2010 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 121 | IS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2731 mm |
