2006 Ford Fusion vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fusion. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 43 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121.
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 Ford Fusion, 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, both vehicles can yield 160 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fusion | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fusion | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1177 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
