1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 276 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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 Vectra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra 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 Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Vectra |
| 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 | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
