1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 38 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 375 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | Spider | 120 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1580 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 76 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |