1959 Austin Princess vs. 2009 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 Volvo C70 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C70 (224 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1959 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin Princess.
Because 1959 Austin Princess 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 1959 Austin Princess. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C70, 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, 1959 Austin Princess (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo C70. (236 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1959 Austin Princess will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo C70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin Princess | 2009 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Princess | C70 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1840 mm |
