2004 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 23 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 570 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, 2004 Audi A8, 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, 2004 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
