1995 Ford Ranger vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1995 Ford Ranger is newer by 16 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 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Ranger (148 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Ranger weights approximately 294 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1995 Ford Ranger (257 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Ranger | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 121 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
