1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2004 Volvo V40
To start off, 2004 Volvo V40 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 1,950 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V40 (169 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V40 weights approximately 285 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 V40, 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 V40 (240 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo V40 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 V40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
