1981 Volvo 240 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1981 Volvo 240 is newer by 22 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 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (96 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Volvo 240 (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 240 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 240 | 120 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2127 cc | 1580 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 76 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 127 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2610 mm |