1998 Mazda 626 vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Mazda 626 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 626 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1978 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 626 | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
