1957 Volvo 120 vs. 2005 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Volvo V40 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V40 (108 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1957 Volvo 120. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V40 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1957 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V40, 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, 2005 Volvo V40 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Volvo 120 | 2005 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
