2009 Ford Escape vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape 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. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 162 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape.
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 Ford Escape, 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 Ford Escape (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 232 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 Weight | 972 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
