1989 BMW 850 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1989 BMW 850 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 260 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.
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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW 850 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 850 | 120 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1581 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 296 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2610 mm |