1960 Volvo 120 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 46 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 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1960 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 630 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 2006 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1960 Volvo 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volvo 120. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Volvo 120 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
