1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (222 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 397 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (311 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 120. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1427 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
