1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2007 Volvo S60
To start off, 2007 Volvo S60 is newer by 48 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S60 (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S60 weights approximately 506 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, 2007 Volvo S60, 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, 2007 Volvo S60 (221 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volvo 120 | 2007 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 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 | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
