1985 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 400 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 121 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1138 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2650 mm |
