1966 Ginetta G12 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ginetta G12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ginetta G12 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ginetta G12 (158 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ginetta G12 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 603 kg more than 1966 Ginetta G12.
Because 1966 Ginetta G12 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 1966 Ginetta G12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ginetta G12 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Ginetta | Volvo |
| Model | G12 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 787 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2670 mm |
