1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (279 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1999 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 121 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2801 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 279 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |