1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer (291 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.
Because 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer (406 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4496 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2649 mm |
