1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Lincoln MKX
To start off, 2012 Lincoln MKX 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lincoln MKX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lincoln MKX (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKX should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lincoln MKX weights approximately 787 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 Lincoln MKX, 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 Lincoln MKX (379 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lincoln MKX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2012 Lincoln MKX | |
| Make | Mazda | Lincoln |
| Model | 121 | MKX |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1921 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4742 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1709 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2824 mm |
