1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1980 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 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. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 209 kg more than 1980 Toyota Corolla.
Because 1980 Toyota Corolla 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 1980 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Mazda 121 (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (94 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1980 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
