2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus 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 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus.
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 Taurus, 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3495 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1134 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 |
