1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 17 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 96 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40, 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 121 | S40 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1870 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |