1989 Austin Maestro vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1989 Austin Maestro is newer by 10 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1989 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 219 kg more than 1989 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Austin Maestro, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Austin Maestro | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maestro | 121 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
