2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 184 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 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
Model | Elantra | 121 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1591 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.4 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |