1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 29 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 176 kg more 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 121 | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 69 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 88.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |