1981 Daihatsu Taft vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1981 Daihatsu Taft is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 121 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Daihatsu Taft will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Taft. (64 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Daihatsu Taft | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Taft | 121 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 958 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2520 mm |
