1992 Mazda 121 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 1992 Mazda 121 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 121. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1992 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 121, 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (263 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 121. (105 Nm). This means 1990 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 121 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | 960 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 80 L |
