1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 22 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 206 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, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 2001 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | 121 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
