2005 Ford Mondeo vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2005 Ford Mondeo is newer by 26 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Mondeo (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 235 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. 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, 2005 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2005 Ford Mondeo (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Mondeo | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mondeo | 121 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1369 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
