1971 Volvo 145 vs. 2011 Lexus RX
To start off, 2011 Lexus RX is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus RX (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 145. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus RX weights approximately 605 kg more than 1971 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 145 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 1971 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX, 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 Lexus RX (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volvo 145 | 2011 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Volvo | Lexus |
| Model | 145 | RX |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 348 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2741 mm |
