1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 435 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2610 mm |
