1968 Volvo 120 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 40 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), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 651 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 2008 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Volvo 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| 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 | 104 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 57 L |
