1981 Mazda 121 vs. 1991 Plymouth Colt
To start off, 1991 Plymouth Colt is newer by 10 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 2,349 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Plymouth Colt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Plymouth Colt (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Plymouth Colt should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Plymouth Colt weights approximately 205 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, 1991 Plymouth Colt, 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, 1991 Plymouth Colt (184 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Plymouth Colt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 121 | 1991 Plymouth Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | 121 | Colt |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
