2002 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 Ford Taurus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Taurus weights approximately 347 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ford Taurus | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | 121 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2933 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2520 mm |