1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2006 Volvo XC90 is newer by 27 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1046 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 2006 Volvo XC90 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, 2006 Volvo XC90 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, 2006 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2006 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
