1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 Mazda 5
To start off, 2010 Mazda 5 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 5 (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 5 weights approximately 418 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, 2010 Mazda 5, 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 Mazda 5 (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2010 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1552 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1753 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
