1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP) has 353 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 142 kg more than 1968 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen W12 | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | W12 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5584 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2610 mm |
