1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 31 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 2,460 cc, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (173 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 240 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 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2460 cc |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
