1983 Dodge Daytona vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1983 Dodge Daytona is newer by 5 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 2,212 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Dodge Daytona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Dodge Daytona (97 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 5 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Dodge Daytona, 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, 1983 Dodge Daytona (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Dodge Daytona | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Daytona | 121 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
