2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 121 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus will offer significantly more control. 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3494 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
