2004 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (130 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 52 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (183 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
