1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 521 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 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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 Impala | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 121 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2807 mm |
