1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2000 Opel Astra is newer by 21 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), 2000 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Opel Astra (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Astra weights approximately 76 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, 2000 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, 2000 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 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 | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
| 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 | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86 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 | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
