1977 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 31 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 255 kg more than 1977 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Opel Astra, 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, 2008 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
