2008 Honda Civic vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2008 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (135 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1970 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
