1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Colt is newer by 32 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 36 more horse power than 2011 Mitsubishi Colt. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mitsubishi Colt weights approximately 316 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Colt, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mitsubishi Colt. (100 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mitsubishi Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2011 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Colt |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 84.8 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 Weight | 1134 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
