1979 BMW 320 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1979 BMW 320 is newer by 20 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 565 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volvo 120 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
1979 BMW 320 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | 120 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1580 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 641 HP | 76 HP |
Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |