2009 Kia Cee'd vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Kia Cee'd 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Cee'd is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Cee'd (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Cee'd should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Cee'd weights approximately 310 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Cee'd, 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 Kia Cee'd (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Cee'd will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Cee'd | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Cee'd | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
