1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2007 Volvo C30
To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C30 (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C30 weights approximately 488 kg more than 1997 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 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 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 1997 Mazda 121. 2007 Volvo C30 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. 2007 Volvo C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2007 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
