2004 Kia Retona vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Kia Retona 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 90 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Retona weights approximately 736 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121.
Because 2004 Kia Retona 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 Kia Retona 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 Kia Retona (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Retona | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Retona | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
