1959 Ford 12 M vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 1974 Volvo 245 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 245 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1959 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 12 M.
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. 1974 Volvo 245 has automatic transmission and 1959 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1959 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 245 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ford 12 M | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | 12 M | 245 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1470 mm |
