1989 Honda Accord vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1989 Honda Accord 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, 1989 Honda Accord (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Honda Accord should accelerate faster 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, 1989 Honda Accord, 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Accord | 121 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
