1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi is newer by 30 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 2,460 cc, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi weights approximately 1173 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, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Kombi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2009 Volkswagen Kombi | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Kombi |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2460 cc |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1970 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
