1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2010 Renault Clio
To start off, 2010 Renault Clio 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2010 Renault Clio. (81 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2010 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Renault Clio weights approximately 41 kg more 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 Renault Clio, 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 Renault Clio (200 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2010 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 121 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 17.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
