1994 Dodge Neon vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1994 Dodge Neon is newer by 15 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Dodge Neon (129 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 72 kg more than 1994 Dodge Neon.
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, 1994 Dodge Neon, 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, 1994 Dodge Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Dodge Neon | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | 121 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
