1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 121 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 121 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |