2009 Buick Lucerne vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 30 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121.
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, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick Lucerne | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Lucerne | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
