1998 BMW 316 vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 29 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, both vehicles can yield 106 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120.
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, 1969 Volvo 120 (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1969 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
