1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,455 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 181 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1996 Mazda 121 (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 121 | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 121 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |