1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 204 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
