1996 Honda Civic vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Honda Civic is newer by 17 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 90 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 169 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic.
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, 1996 Honda Civic, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (124 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Honda Civic | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Civic | 121 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |