2009 Honda HR-V vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Honda HR-V 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda HR-V (122 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda HR-V should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda HR-V weights approximately 183 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 2009 Honda HR-V is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda HR-V 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda HR-V. (144 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda HR-V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda HR-V | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | HR-V | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1317 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
