1966 Volvo 144 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 144. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 144 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volvo 144 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (104 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1966 Volvo 144. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volvo 144. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1966 Volvo 144. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Volvo 144 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 Volvo 144. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volvo 144. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volvo 144.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Volvo 144 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 144 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
