1989 Audi 100 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1989 Audi 100 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (5 cylinders), 1989 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Audi 100 (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Audi 100 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi 100 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi 100, 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, 1989 Audi 100 (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Audi 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | 100 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
