2005 Mazda Tribute vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2005 Mazda Tribute 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 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda Tribute (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 384 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 2005 Mazda Tribute 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, 2005 Mazda Tribute 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, 2005 Mazda Tribute (206 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Tribute | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | 121 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
