1988 Volvo 480 vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 480 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 120. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 45 L |
