1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121.
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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
