1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander

To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 796 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 Toyota Highlander, 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Mazda 121 2012 Toyota Highlander
Make Mazda Toyota
Model 121 Highlander
Year Released 1979 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 90 HP 270 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 336 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1134 kg 1930 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4785 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2789 mm


 

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