1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
