2003 Ford Ka vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 228 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
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 Ford Ka, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Ka | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Ka | 121 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |