1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1979 Mazda 121 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 20 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 339 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 121 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1979 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 795 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |