1989 Ford Probe vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 181 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. 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 Ford Probe, 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Probe | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Probe | 121 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |