1998 Ford Contour vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 19 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 108 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, 1998 Ford Contour, 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Contour | 121 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
