1998 Mazda 121 vs. 1979 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,452 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 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. 1998 Mazda 121 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1979 Toyota Corolla.
Because 1979 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 1979 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1979 Toyota Corolla (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 1979 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 121 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 820 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 |
