1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1996 Volvo V90
To start off, 1996 Volvo V90 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V90 (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V90 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V90 weights approximately 481 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. 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, 1996 Volvo V90 (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V90 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 V90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | V90 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
