1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 121 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1981 Mazda 121 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 323 | 121 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 66 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |