1981 Mazda 121 vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 1986 Saab 9000 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Saab 9000 (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Saab 9000 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000, 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, 1986 Saab 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda 121 | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | 121 | 9000 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1305 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |