1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Ford Transit Connect

To start off, 2012 Ford Transit Connect 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Transit Connect is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Transit Connect (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Transit Connect should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Transit Connect weights approximately 410 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 Ford Transit Connect, 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 Ford Transit Connect (173 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Transit Connect will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.

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