1977 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 440 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 121 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 1977 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 121 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2780 mm |
