2008 Kia Picanto vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Kia Picanto 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. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2008 Kia Picanto. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Picanto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 284 kg more than 2008 Kia Picanto. 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 Kia Picanto, 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Picanto. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Picanto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Picanto | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Picanto | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1084 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2520 mm |
