1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 1983 Austin Maestro is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,777 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Austin Maestro (85 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volvo 120 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Because 1968 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 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 1968 Volvo 120 (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Maestro | 120 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
