1968 Volvo 120 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (135 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 679 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 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volvo 120 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1777 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
