1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 18 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (162 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 241 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.
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, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mazda 121 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 121 | S70 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 162 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |