1978 Mazda 121 vs. 2000 Volvo V70
To start off, 2000 Volvo V70 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2000 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo V70 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volvo V70 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Volvo V70, 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, 2000 Volvo V70 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 121 | 2000 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
