1990 BMW 316 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 31 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 85 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, 1990 BMW 316 (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 316 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 316 | 120 |
Year Released | 1990 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1581 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |