2004 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Mazda 929
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 94 kg more than 1979 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 929 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 929. 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 (166 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1979 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 929 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
