1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1999 Opel Vectra is newer by 20 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1999 Opel Vectra. (81 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 266 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, 1999 Opel Vectra, 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, 1999 Opel Vectra (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
