2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (346 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 611 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 Dodge Ram, 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 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 346 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2520 mm |
