1991 Mazda 121 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 681 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121. 1998 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 121 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 80 L |
