1997 Mazda 121 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Mazda 121 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (127 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 121 weights approximately 31 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1985 Volkswagen Golf (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |
