1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 53 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 203 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 2012 Honda Civic (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Volvo 120 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
Make | Volvo | Honda |
Model | 120 | Civic |
Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 118 Nm | 173 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1198 kg |