2009 Audi A8 vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 696 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 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
