1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Hyundai Elantra

To start off, 2013 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 34 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, 2013 Hyundai Elantra (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 171 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, 2013 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2013 Hyundai Elantra (178 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Mazda 121 2013 Hyundai Elantra
Make Mazda Hyundai
Model 121 Elantra
Year Released 1979 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 146 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 178 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 98 mm 87 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 10.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1134 kg 1305 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1775 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1435 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2700 mm


 

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