1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 76 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 Mazda 323, 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 Mazda 323 (183 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.6 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 | 1210 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
