1992 Mazda 121 vs. 1970 Reliant Bug
To start off, 1992 Mazda 121 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Bug. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Bug would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 121 (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Bug. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Bug. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 121 weights approximately 412 kg more than 1970 Reliant Bug. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Reliant Bug 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 1970 Reliant Bug. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 121, 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 Mazda 121 (105 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Reliant Bug. (52 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Reliant Bug.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 1970 Reliant Bug | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 121 | Bug |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 2800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 1960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 23 L |
