1985 Mazda 121 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (158 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 634 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 121 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1138 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2537 mm |
