2004 Ford Fusion vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Ford Fusion 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 11 more horse power than 2004 Ford Fusion. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Fusion weights approximately 11 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121.
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 Ford Fusion, 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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Fusion. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Fusion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Fusion | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fusion | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
