1993 Mazda Lantis vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1993 Mazda Lantis 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 Mazda Lantis (121 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda Lantis should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda Lantis weights approximately 26 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 Mazda Lantis, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda Lantis. (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda Lantis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda Lantis | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Lantis | 121 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 98 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
