1992 Ford Tempo vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1992 Ford Tempo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Tempo (129 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Tempo should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Ford Tempo weights approximately 65 kg more than 1977 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Tempo, 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, 1992 Ford Tempo (204 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Tempo | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tempo | 121 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
