1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (79 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 32 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
