2002 Honda Saber vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2002 Honda Saber is newer by 23 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 2,649 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Honda Saber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda Saber (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda Saber should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Honda Saber weights approximately 356 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, 2002 Honda Saber, 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 Honda Saber (240 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Honda Saber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Saber | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Saber | 121 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2649 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
