2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 226 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (165 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
