1993 Citroen Xantia vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1993 Citroen Xantia is newer by 14 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Citroen Xantia (92 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 199 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, 1993 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1993 Citroen Xantia (200 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Citroen Xantia | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | Xantia | 121 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1333 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
