1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Volvo 120 (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 130 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120.
Because 1969 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 1969 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1969 Volvo 120 (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1969 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
