1988 Ford Taurus vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1988 Ford Taurus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1988 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 266 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus, 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Taurus | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | 121 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |