1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (197 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volvo 120 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2522 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
