1989 Ford Escort vs. 1962 Volvo 120
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Volvo 120 (81 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1962 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 1962 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort, 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, 1962 Volvo 120 (142 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1962 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1962 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 120 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
