1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 46 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 271 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volvo 120 | 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 120 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2630 mm |
