1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
Model | 121 | Cruze |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 16.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4597 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1788 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1476 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2685 mm |