1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (444 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 184 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 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (551 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| 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 | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
