1968 Volvo 120 vs. 1981 Honda Ballade
To start off, 1981 Honda Ballade is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,777 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 67 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volvo 120 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Because 1968 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 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Ballade, 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, 1968 Volvo 120 (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volvo 120 | 1981 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Volvo | Honda |
| Model | 120 | Ballade |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1777 cc | 1334 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.2 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2330 mm |
