1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 29 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, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 538 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Sharan (211 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2007 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
