1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Toyota Yaris

To start off, 2012 Toyota Yaris 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, 2012 Toyota Yaris (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Yaris should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 84 kg more than 2012 Toyota Yaris.

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 Yaris, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Yaris. (139 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Yaris.

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