1979 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC70 is newer by 32 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC70 (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 807 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 2011 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70 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, 2011 Volvo XC70 (440 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 2011 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1941 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4839 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1603 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2814 mm |
