1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda 121 (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 161 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1984 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2340 mm |
