2009 Ford Flex vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Ford Flex 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 121 weights approximately 164 kg more than 2009 Ford Flex.
Because 2009 Ford Flex 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 Ford Flex 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 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Flex | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Flex | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
