1956 Volvo 120 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 344 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 S40 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Volvo 120 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
