1968 Volvo 120 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 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 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP) has 151 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 441 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 V50, 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 V50 (320 Nm) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 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 V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1777 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 218 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
