1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 121 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
