2012 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 31 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 330 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, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | 121 |
Year Released | 2012 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2520 mm |