1983 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1968 Volvo 120 (67 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volvo 120 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Passat | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | 120 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2610 mm |
