1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 101 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 121 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 121 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |