1996 Audi A6 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 17 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A6 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A6 weights approximately 286 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, 1996 Audi A6, 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, 1996 Audi A6 (173 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
