1998 Mazda 121 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 121 weights approximately 146 kg more than 1984 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, 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 121 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
