1998 Mazda 121 vs. 1992 Volvo 480
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volvo 480 (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 480 weights approximately 47 kg more than 1998 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, 1992 Volvo 480 (140 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 1992 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
