1970 Volvo 120 vs. 2010 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 194 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Volvo 120 | 2010 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 120 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3010 mm |
