2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 424 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, both vehicles can yield 160 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
