1957 Volvo 120 vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 is newer by 52 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 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1957 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo C30 weights approximately 603 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, 2009 Volvo C30, 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, 2009 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Volvo 120 | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
