1968 Volvo 120 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 37 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 165 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volvo 120 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1777 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.2 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2590 mm |
