2008 Ford Ranger vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Ford Ranger 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 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ranger (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2008 Ford Ranger.
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 Ford Ranger, 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 Ford Ranger (209 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Ranger | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Ranger | 121 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 209 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |