2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 25 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 396 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 2004 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
