2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 755 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 120 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
