1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Volvo C30
To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C30 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C30 weights approximately 437 kg more than 1996 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, 2007 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2007 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
