1999 Mazda 121 vs. 1980 Mazda 929
To start off, 1999 Mazda 121 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mazda 929 (89 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mazda 929 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda 929 weights approximately 161 kg more than 1999 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mazda 929 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 1980 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1980 Mazda 929 (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 121 | 1980 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 121 | 929 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
