1963 Volvo 120 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1989 Volvo 460 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 460 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 460 (110 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1963 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460 should accelerate faster than 1963 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 460 weights approximately 44 kg more than 1963 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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, 1989 Volvo 460 (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Volvo 120 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 110 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1054 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
