2006 Honda Civic vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Honda Civic 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 1,999 cc, 2006 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Civic (198 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Honda Civic weights approximately 171 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 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (188 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Civic | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1970 cc |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
