1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 33 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 606 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Mazda | Buick |
| Model | 121 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2837 mm |
