2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 121 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1058 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
