2006 Buick Lucerne vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Buick Lucerne is newer by 27 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 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Buick Lucerne (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 416 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, 2006 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2006 Buick Lucerne (308 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Buick Lucerne | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Lucerne | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 308 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
