2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1732 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer, 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Ford Explorer | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Explorer | 121 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 98 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |