1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 27 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 251 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
