1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Alpina D3
To start off, 2011 Alpina D3 is newer by 32 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alpina D3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina D3 (211 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina D3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina D3 weights approximately 426 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Alpina D3 (450 Nm) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 2011 Alpina D3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2011 Alpina D3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alpina |
| Model | 121 | D3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 211 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
