1988 Volvo 480 vs. 1966 Volvo 120
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (108 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1966 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volvo 120 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
Because 1966 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 1966 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1966 Volvo 120 (145 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1966 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 1966 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
