1999 Kia Retona vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1999 Kia Retona is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,615 cc (2 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda 121 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1999 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Retona weights approximately 670 kg more than 1977 Mazda 121.
Because 1999 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Retona will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Kia Retona (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Retona | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Retona | 121 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
