1971 Austin 1800 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1971 Austin 1800 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 1800 weights approximately 199 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Austin 1800, 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, 1971 Austin 1800 (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 1800 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1581 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
