1960 Volvo 120 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1960 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 659 kg more than 1960 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volvo 120. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Volvo 120 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
