1990 Ford Probe vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1990 Ford Probe is newer by 11 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Ford Probe (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Probe weights approximately 116 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, 1990 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, 1990 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Ford Probe | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Probe | 121 |
Year Released | 1990 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 98 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |