2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 199 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda. 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, 2004 Fiat Panda, 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, 2004 Fiat Panda (260 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
