1978 Mazda 121 vs. 1961 Volvo 120
To start off, 1978 Mazda 121 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 121 (86 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1961 Volvo 120. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 121 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1961 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 1961 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
