1998 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 639 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.
Because 2008 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 121 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| 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 | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
