1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 410 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, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan (281 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1544 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4427 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1683 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2604 mm |
