1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2003 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2003 Skoda Octavia is newer by 24 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Skoda Octavia (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster 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, 2003 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2003 Skoda Octavia (240 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2003 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mazda | Skoda |
| Model | 121 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
