1994 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1994 Hyundai Sonata 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 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Hyundai Sonata (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 272 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, 1994 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Hyundai Sonata | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
Model | Sonata | 121 |
Year Released | 1994 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91.2 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |