1998 Ford Explorer vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Ford Explorer 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Explorer (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 766 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.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 121 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
