2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 29 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 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (172 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 336 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, 2008 Chevrolet HHR, 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, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | HHR | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
