1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 197 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| 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 | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
