1998 Ford Focus vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 30 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 1,777 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 64 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.
Because 1968 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 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1998 Ford Focus (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
