2009 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 391 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Focus, 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 Focus (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Focus | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | 121 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |