1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 26 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1232 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 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
