1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 401 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 Mitsubishi Outlander, 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 Mitsubishi Outlander (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 121 | Outlander |
| 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 | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4666 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1679 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
