1985 Mazda 121 vs. 1949 Mercury Roadster

To start off, 1985 Mazda 121 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1949 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 825 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1949 Mercury Roadster 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 1949 Mercury Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 121, 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. 1949 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1949 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Mazda 121 1949 Mercury Roadster
Make Mazda Mercury
Model 121 Roadster
Year Released 1985 1949
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1138 cc 3990 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 55 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 3800 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 725 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 3480 mm 5260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2370 mm 2960 mm