1965 Volvo 120 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP) has 103 more horse power than 1965 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1965 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 336 kg more than 1965 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Volvo 120 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1776 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
