1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Quantum.
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, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Volkswagen Quantum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1990 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Quantum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |
