1969 Volvo 120 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 328 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 120. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Volvo 120 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
