1983 Ford Orion vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1983 Ford Orion is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 121 weights approximately 254 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, 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, 1977 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Orion | 121 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
