1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 19 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 146 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121.
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, 1998 Opel Astra, 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, 1998 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
