2009 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 5,328 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (284 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 1289 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will offer significantly more control. 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 Chevrolet Tahoe (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Tahoe | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5328 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 284 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 2419 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2070 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1970 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
