1955 Abarth 208 vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 1956 Volvo 120 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 208 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Abarth 208 (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Abarth 208 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Volvo 120 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1955 Abarth 208.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Abarth 208 | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Abarth | Volvo |
| Model | 208 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1088 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2610 mm |
