2009 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 30 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 256 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 1979 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
