1987 Saab 900 vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 1987 Saab 900 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Saab 900 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900, 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, 1987 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Saab 900 | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 900 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2610 mm |
