2005 Kia Rio vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,341 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Rio weights approximately 219 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Kia Rio (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | 121 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1341 cc | 1138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 944 kg | 725 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2370 mm |
