1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Passat 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) has 15 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 224 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (114 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1975 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
