1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 105 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 121 | Golf |
Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1239 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |