1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 895 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ford Thunderbird 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 1996 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 121, 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, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Thunderbird | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Thunderbird | 121 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1138 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 55 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 88 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 725 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2370 mm |