2003 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 24 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 2,735 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Intrepid (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 436 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, 2003 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 2003 Dodge Intrepid (257 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Intrepid | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Intrepid | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2735 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
