1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Volvo V70
To start off, 2005 Volvo V70 is newer by 26 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V70 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V70 weights approximately 513 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 2005 Volvo V70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V70 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volvo V70 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2005 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1647 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2800 mm |
