1997 Toyota Corolla vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 1997 Toyota Corolla is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Corolla (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 170 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Corolla, 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 Toyota Corolla (145 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota Corolla | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Corolla | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2610 mm |
