1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1963 Volvo 120
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1963 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1963 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 596 kg more than 1963 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1963 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Thunderbird | 120 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1606 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2610 mm |
