2009 Kia Sedona vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Kia Sedona 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sedona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sedona (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sedona should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sedona weights approximately 151 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 Kia Sedona, 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 Sedona (350 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sedona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sedona | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sedona | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1990 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2520 mm |
