1997 Mazda 121 vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1997 Mazda 121 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 121 weights approximately 1 kg more than 1978 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 343 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 1978 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mazda 121 (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
