1981 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 25 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 76 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, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer (176 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda 121 | 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | 121 | Lancer |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |