2001 Ford Taurus vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2001 Ford Taurus is newer by 22 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 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Taurus (201 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Taurus weights approximately 371 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.
Because 1979 Mazda 121 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 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Taurus, 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, 2001 Ford Taurus (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Taurus | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 121 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
