1997 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 1997 Audi A4 is newer by 16 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 310 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, 1997 Audi A4, 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, 1997 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Audi A4 | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A4 | 121 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 98 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |