1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 45 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 2,507 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 403 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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volvo 120 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
