1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2007 Volvo XC90 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 XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo XC90 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1134 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.
Because 2007 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2007 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2007 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
