1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,796 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 Routan, 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 Routan (313 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 Routan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3080 mm |
