2008 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 476 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
