1981 Mazda 121 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 168 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda 121 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 121 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1298 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |