1988 Ford Fiesta vs. 1962 Volvo 120
To start off, 1988 Ford Fiesta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Volvo 120 (67 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Volvo 120 weights approximately 242 kg more than 1988 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1962 Volvo 120 (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1962 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Fiesta | 1962 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Fiesta | 120 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 768 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2610 mm |
